Which of the following describes a positive ion?

• A. Anion
• B. Cation
• C. Neutral Ion
• D. Molecule

Answer: (B)

A positive ion is specifically referred to as a cation. This occurs when an atom loses one or more electrons, resulting in a net positive charge due to the imbalance between the number of protons (which are positively charged) and electrons (which are negatively charged). When the number of protons exceeds the number of electrons, the ion has a positive charge.

In contrast, an anion is a negatively charged ion formed when an atom gains electrons. A neutral ion would imply an atom with no net charge, meaning the number of protons equals the number of electrons. Lastly, a molecule is a group of atoms bonded together and does not inherently refer to any ionic charge; it can be neutral, positively charged, or negatively charged depending on its composition and bonding. Therefore, the term cation accurately describes what a positive ion is.